Book Tour & Review: Calling on the Matchmaker by Jody Hedlund

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Haunted by the death of her sister, Finola Shanahan has resolved that she's not worthy of a family of her own and commits to spending her days caring for immigrants in the slums. When Finola sabotages yet another unwanted relationship her parents arranged for her, her father calls upon the local Irish matchmaker, who pairs her with successful wagonmaker Riley Rafferty. Finola quickly realizes her usual tricks won't work on him, however, as she cannot outsmart or outwit the dashing, determined, and daring man.

A candidate in the St. Louis mayoral election, Riley is confident a union with the wealthy Shanahan family will help solidify his chances of winning--and even more assured he and Finola can make a difference together. When a cholera outbreak begins to take St. Louis by storm, they must navigate a burgeoning attraction and growing danger testing all they know about love and sacrifice.

My Review

The passionate natures of Finola and Riley stood out to me in this compelling story. I loved the vibrant setting of mid-19th century St. Louis that served as a backdrop for their turbulent relationship. They are both devoted to helping others- Finola through compassionate service to the poor, and Riley is known for dangerous rescues where others wouldn't or couldn't step in. In fact, Riley's daring rescue of Finola serves as their first meeting, and in no time Riley goes from thinking he will never marry again to never being able to marry anyone but Finola. She puts up quite the fight, especially against her unwilling attraction to him. I loved their antics and the shenanigans involving not only them, but their clever matchmaker Bellamy as well. Finola and Riley both have hidden reasons for the way they live their lives, which are slowly revealed and bond them together in their heartbreaking pasts. I was riveted as Riley's patience stood up to Finola's stubbornness, and could not wait to see how they would manage to overcome the complicated choices before them.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Looking forward to the next book in A Shanahan Match series . . .

 

Praise for Calling on the Matchmaker

“Hedlund’s textured historical backdrop brings the city’s Irish tenements to life, and the romance between Finola and Riley, full of longing and barely contained passion (“She was like a fire burning down a building. And he was walking straight into the flames”), is a treat. Readers will revel in this charming romp.”— Publisher’s Weekly

“SOOO CRAZY GOOD!!! Absolutely loved this book - one of my new favorites from this author!”— Marilee, Marilee Loves to Read 

 

“Sizzling chemistry, rich detail, and compelling action.”— Misty M. Beller, USA Today bestselling author

About the Author

Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of over fifty novels and is the winner of numerous awards. Jody lives in Michigan with her husband, busy family, and five spoiled cats. She writes sweet historical romances with plenty of sizzle.

Website | X | Facebook | Instagram | Bookbub | Goodreads

Blog Tour, Review & Giveaway: Never Hire a Hero by Regina Scott

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Never Hire a Hero by Regina Scott, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Never Hire a Hero
Series: Fortune's Brides: Guarding Her Heart #3
Author: Regina Scott
Publisher: Edwards and Williams
Release Date: December 11, 2023
Genre: Sweet Regency Romance

Three children and a marriage of convenience may be his biggest challenge yet 

A former elite soldier, Stephen Roth was trained to be ruthless as he served as bodyguard for kings and princes. So why would his English patroness, Lady Belfort, and her cat, Fortune, arrange for him to take a position as the tutor to the heir of Alldene Castle and the boy’s siblings? And why does the children’s mother, Lady Alldene, look at him with shining eyes, as if he could be some sort of hero? This was not the sort of challenge he bargained for! 

A peer in her own right, Thea, Countess of Alldene, was raised in Alldene Castle and taught how to rule over it. But nothing prepared her for the death of her husband and the villainy of the man he appointed as guardian for her children. If a tutor with a razor-sharp gaze will prevent that man from taking her sons away from her, she’s willing to put up with Roth’s rough-shod ways. 

But the castle holds a secret that may prove Thea’s undoing. When danger threatens, she turns to the one man who might be able to keep them all safe. Could a marriage of convenience over Christmas prove that heroes can turn up in the least likely places? 

If you like warm, witty historical romances, with a touch of mystery, then you’ll love this historical romance by an award-winning, bestselling author. 

“All readers who love Regency and historical romances need to pick up stories by Regina Scott. The author has never disappointed me. I am very happy to recommend any of her novels.” – Huntress Reviews 

Hire yourself a hero, today.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookBub

 

My Review

 

I have enjoyed the Fortune's Brides series with Meredith and her matchmaking cat! I've read the books in the initial branch of the series, but still need to get caught up with The Wedding Vow and Guarding Her Heart series. Even though Never Hire a Hero is the third book in this branch of the series, I didn't feel lost. I already had the background of Meredith and Fortune from the first series, so I understood their personalities, and how they are the connection between all the characters. It was easy to admire both Roth and Thea- they are strong and loyal, doing their best in the tasks before them. They both have hidden vulnerabilities, and once they established a valuable friendship (although the employer/employee status kept them at arm's length), they were able to support and encourage each other in ways nobody else had before. I loved the way Roth won over her children as their stoic and protective tutor, instilling life values and experiences that were far more valuable than their education. The hint of attraction blooms under the circumstances when he allows himself to be her protector for life, and I appreciated that she helped him feel worthy, and their love grew naturally together. There is a mild element of suspense with the search for hidden treasure, a conniving guardian, and mysterious footsteps with a blue light in the night.

 

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

 

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About the Author

Regina Scott started writing novels in the third grade. Thankfully for literature as we know it, she didn’t actually sell her first novel until she had learned a bit more about writing. Since her first novel was published, her stories have traveled the globe, with translations in many languages including Dutch, German, Italian, and Portuguese. She now has now published more than 65 works of warm, witty romance and more than 1 million copies of her books are in reader hands. She and her husband of 30 years reside in Washington State on the way to Mt. Rainier. Regina Scott has learned to fence, dressed as a Regency dandy, driven four in hand, and sailed on a tall ship, all in the name of research, of course.

Connect with Regina by visiting reginascott.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(3) winners will win ebook copies of all 14 books in the Fortune's Brides series!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 13, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 20, 2023. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Books will be delivered via BookFunnel. No country restrictions. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Home from the Storm by Laurel Blount

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Home from the Storm by Laurel Blount, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Home from the Storm
Series: Johns Mill Amish Romance #4
Author: Laurel Blount
Publisher: Berkley
Release Date: December 26, 2023
Genre: Inspirational Romance Amish

In this stirring Amish romance about love and second chances, a shunned man returns to protect the wife he left behind—and falls in love with the family he never knew he had. 

After a senseless loss, hotheaded Caleb Hochstedler left his Amish faith and his young wife to seek justice. Two years later, he tracks his parents’ killer back home to Johns Mill, where he’s astonished to learn he’s the father of twins. Now he's determined to protect his children and the woman he still loves—if she’ll let him. 

Her new husband’s abandonment broke Rhoda Lambright’s heart and proved her father, the bishop, right. Such a stubborn man could never be happy among the peaceful Amish. When Caleb unexpectedly returns, Rhoda is caught between her rock of a husband and a very hard place. 

Her church forbids divorce and requires forgiveness, so Rhoda lets Caleb back into their home. But can she ever let him back into her heart? One thing’s for certain sure. This second chance will take all the faith they can find.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

 

Excerpt

“Abram said you and I weren’t to . . . talk about anything until he got here, but while we’re waiting, I’d like to see the little ones.” He shifted his weight from one boot to the other. “I hardly even got a good look at them before. If you don’t mind, I’d rather meet them now, while we’re alone.”

Rhoda hesitated, sympathy warring with concern.

She needed Abram here. She wasn’t sure how to deal with this. And she certain sure needed to know what had brought her husband home and what his plans were before this went much further. The idea of Caleb being part of the twins’ lives while living among the Englisch and thumbing his nose at church rules . . . that worried her.

But she could understand Caleb not wanting to meet his son and daughter under the eye of the bishop. He’d never felt comfortable around church leaders, and for good reason.

“All right,” she conceded. “They’re in the kitchen.”

Caleb crossed the bakery in a few long strides, but he stopped short at the kitchen doorway.

Rhoda paused behind him, unsure what to do. Best, she decided, to do nothing. She would step in if the children showed any signs of being upset, but Caleb would have to handle the introductions himself. She had no idea how to go about it.

He took a step in the children’s direction—then halted. He turned to Rhoda, and the raw pain on his face made her catch her breath.

“What?” she whispered, alarmed.

“I don’t . . . I don’t know their names,” he ground out roughly. 

 

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About the Author

Award-winning author Laurel Blount writes inspirational romances full of grit and grace—with characters who’ll walk right off the page and into your heart! She lives on a farm in Georgia with her husband, their four fabulous kids, and an assortment of ridiculously spoiled animals.

An enthusiastic multi-tasker, Laurel writes for both Berkley/Penguin Random House and Love Inspired/Harlequin. She’s a Publishers Weekly best-selling author and the recipient of ACFW’s Carol Award, The New England Reader’s Choice Award and GRW’s Maggie Award. She’s represented by Jessica Alvarez of Bookends Literary Agency.  

Home from the Storm is Laurel’s twelfth book—and more stories are in the works! Stay tuned!

Connect with Laurel by visiting laurelblountbooks.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win print copies of Shelter in the Storm, Strength in the Storm and Courage in the Storm plus a $25 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight December 11, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 18, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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Review: Rocky Mountain Promise by Misty M. Beller

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Lorelei Collins possesses a soft heart for any animal in need, so when she finds a buffalo calf bawling beside its mother's lifeless body, she can't help but bring it home to raise on the ranch she and her sisters are building in the Rocky Mountain wilderness. Little does she realize that its white coloring is rare and considered sacred by Native Americans, which makes it highly valuable to them and the European trappers alike.

A flood of men visit their ranch to regard the marvel, some trying to woo Lorelei into marriage so she'll bring the buffalo calf along as dowry, and others trying to steal the calf outright. When the men's advances become more sinister, she approaches Tanner Mason, the quiet and mysterious owner of the new trading post, with an idea: She and the calf will move to his post, along with her family's trusted Blackfoot friend. This will solve both their problems, bringing customers to his trade room and protecting her family from the trouble brought on by so many strangers. Yet as the danger travels with her, Lorelei and Tanner are faced with a threat greater than anything they're prepared for--one that will test the limits of both their abilities and the love growing between them.

USA Today bestselling author Misty M. Beller delivers an exhilarating addition to the Sisters of the Rockies series fraught with peril, adventure, and romance amid the majesty of the Rocky Mountains.

My Review

While I appreciate a good wilderness journey adventure (which this author excels at writing), the atmosphere of the ranch and the fort brought a more homey vibe as Lorelei cares for the buffalo calf and Tanner establishes his business. Lorelei and her sisters show a great deal of care and loyalty for each other, and Tanner fit right in with his protective nature and desire to help solve problems. I also admired the sisters' Native American friend White Horse, whose mother they are searching for. It seems that the search will be the overarching plot that connects each book in the series. The white calf has a mystical history with the Natives and mountain men, and it was interesting to see to what lengths men would go to lay eyes on the calf, touch it, or just plain steal it. Lorelei and Tanner have their hands full, even with the help of White Horse, and the pace of the story increases as they protect the calf and the store while taking care of the ranch, Lorelei's sick sister, and coming close to finding the elusive Indian mother.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Don't miss the first book in the Sisters of the Rockies series . . .

Book Tour & Review: A Winter by the Sea by Julie Klassen

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Royalty comes to Sidmouth, bringing unexpected danger and the sweet possibility of romance . . .

When the Duke and Duchess of Kent and their daughter--the future Queen Victoria--rent neighboring Woolbrook Cottage for the winter, the Summers sisters are called upon to host three of the royal family's male staff in their seaside house. But they soon realize they've invited secrets and intrigue into their home.

Meanwhile, Emily Summers longs to become an author. A local publisher offers to consider her novel if she will first write a Sidmouth guidebook for him. Emily agrees and begins researching the area with help from the Duke of Kent's handsome private secretary. But a surprise visitor from her past shows up at Sea View, leaving Emily torn between the desires she's long held dear and her budding dreams for the future.

Return to the Devonshire coast with the Summers sisters, where loyalties are tested, secrets come to light, and new love emerges.

My Review

A lovely, meandering story focused on Emily's three loves- two different men and her writing. One suitor she long pined for abandoned her in her family's time of need, only to reappear with renewed hopes. Her new friend lodging at the inn provides a level of support and encouragement of her own dreams that she's never experienced before, but of course there are obstacles to the relationship. Her writing brings her new opportunities as she reaches outside her comfort zone, yet her family is there as her foundation of strength. I enjoyed seeing her character growth, becoming less self-centered as she follows her sisters' examples of selfless service and compassion. We also read in the perspective of older sister Sarah, who has another potential relationship developing, but her main focus is on the inn and her family. Having royals visiting the small community brought a level of excitement and drama, interesting characters, and elements of real history. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Don't miss the first book in the On Devonshire Shores series . . .

About the Author

Julie Klassen loves all things Jane—Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. Her books have sold more than 1.5 million copies, and she is a three-time recipient of the Christy Award for Historical Romance. The Secret of Pembrooke Park was honored with the Minnesota Book Award for Genre Fiction. Julie has also won the Midwest Book Award and Christian Retailing's Best Award and has been a finalist in the RITA and Carol Awards. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full-time. She and her husband have two sons and live in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram | Goodreads

 

 

PRAISE FOR A WINTER BY THE SEA

“Enlivened by historical details of the royal family’s 1819 visit to Devonshire, the narrative is propelled forward by an irrepressible protagonist whose spunk will easily win readers’ sympathy. This breezy and delightful installment is sure to satisfy Klassen’s fans.”— Publisher’s Weekly

“A Winter by the Sea is a story about finding your purpose and realizing that the things we hope and pray for...might not always be the things we truly need… The On Devonshire Shores series is truly a delight.”— Lauren, The Books Script

“Julie Klassen has provided such a beautiful escape with this series…I can't wait to see what comes next in this series and will be highly anticipating book 3!!”— Tasha, Clean Read Book Club

 

 

Takeover Blitz, Excerpt & Giveaway: Her Christmas Healing by Mindy Obenhaus

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Her Christmas Healing by Mindy Obenhaus hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Her Christmas Healing 

Series: K-9 Companions #17; Hope Crossing #4 

Author: Love Inspired 

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers 

Release Date: November 28, 2023 

Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

Christmas is around the corner…

And love might be right next door. 

Hope Crossing, Texas, is just what Jillian McKenna needs. Here, she can recover after a terrible attack…and create a home for her baby-to-be. But she also has a complication next door. She once saw a future with veterinarian Gabriel Vaughn—a future that feels impossible now. But with love, faith, a support dog and some Christmas spirit, maybe it’s not too late after all… 

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope. 

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Christianbook | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

 

Excerpt

Moving at a more leisurely pace, Jillian approached Gabriel. “What are you working on?”

“Clearing one side of my garage—which pretty much serves as a catchall anyway since neither of my trucks will fit—in case you need space to store some stuff.”

Her vision blurred as tears filled her eyes, spilling onto her cheeks. She quickly turned around, not wanting him to see her. But it was too late.

“Hey, what’s going on?” He was in front of her, his palms cupping her elbows.

“Nothing,” she sobbed, feeling absolutely mortified. “Just stupid pregnancy hormones making me melt down over a random act of kindness.” She swiped at her cheeks. “Ugh. This is so embarrassing.” She sniffed, finally meeting his gaze. “Thank you. That was very sweet of you. Not to mention unexpected.”

“Well, with you getting bigger every day, you’ll need space to move around the house.”

“Wait. Did you just say I was big?”

His expression was priceless. “Uh, no. I probably should’ve phrased that differently. The baby is getting bigger every day. And you’re smiling again.”

“I am.” A chuckle bubbled from her. “Thanks. Now I need to change clothes and see about making some space in the house.”

“Oh, no you don’t.” He picked up the ball Aggie had dropped at his feet. “You can formulate a plan, but I’m in charge of execution. No heavy lifting for you.”

“Yes, sir.”

He tossed the ball as she started toward the house. “I’ll stay out here and entertain the Aggster for a while. Don’t forget to take the ground beef out of the freezer. Rest of the stuff’s at my place.” He poked a thumb over his shoulder as Aggie trotted toward him with a ball in her mouth. “May as well leave it there until we need it.”

Pausing on the porch, she glanced back at Gabriel. How many times had she dreamed of him since her assault? Of being held in his strong arms again and him feeling the same way about her as he once had. Picking up where they left off, only with her living in Hope Crossing.

But that was nothing more than a pipe dream. Everything he’d done for her since she’d arrived—going out of his way to make her feel safe, helping her out around the house—that was Gabriel’s modus operandi. When he saw a need, he went to any length to meet it. Meaning she couldn’t allow herself to read anything more into his actions. No matter how much she might want to. 

 

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About the Author

Best-selling author Mindy Obenhaus is passionate about touching readers with Biblical truths in an entertaining, and sometimes adventurous, manner. She lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, two sassy pups, countless cattle, deer and the occasional coyote, mountain lion or snake. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, cooking and watching the Hallmark Channel.

Connect with Mindy by visiting mindyobenhaus.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of the book and a $20 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight December 6, 2023 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on December 13, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

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Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Battle for the Crown by Dawn Shipman

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Battle for the Crown by Dawn Shipman, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Battle for the Crown
Series: Lost Stones of Argonia #3
Author: Dawn Shipman
Publisher: Elk Lake
Release Date: October 16, 2023
Genre: YA Fantasy (Clean)

“Adventurous quests, prophetic stones, and forbidden romance! Who could possibly ask for more?” —Lindsay A. Franklin, Carol Award–winning author of The Weaver Trilogy

She’s only seventeen—too young to die. 

But the wizard, the ambitious king, and their marauding Borags must be stopped. Fulfilling the prophecy is the only way to defeat them, and after scouring Argonia for the missing gemstones, Lyric and her companions are just steps away from the final, crucial battle. 

If they fail, the world they love will sink into a dark night of destruction. 

If they fail, they will almost certainly die. 

But Lyric is a king’s daughter, and long ago she chose this path. Terrified or not, she will see it to its end, because sometimes, sacrifice is the only way forward. 

Dark magic, tragic loss, and tender romance abound in this gripping conclusion to the Lost Stones of Argonia trilogy.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

Excerpt

Marek frowned. “What do you propose?”

She sighed. Raised her chin. “I would like you to go to the southern border. Fell trees, pile brush. Set fires if you have to. Delay them as long as possible.”

He shook his head. “I can’t do that. From the beginning, I’ve had one task on this mission—to keep you safe. I can’t do that from miles away. Don’t ask me to leave you now.”

She gazed steadily at him. “I have to. This is not just about me. It never was.”

 

More Books in This Series

 

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About the Author

Dawn Shipman knew she wanted to be a writer since Mrs. Juell’s 10th grade Creative Writing class. Since then, she’s written stories, poetry, plays, puzzles, quizzes, and a mass of magazine articles, including interviews, how-tos, and personal experience stories. She believes freelance writing is the ideal occupation for those who are nosy by nature and like asking personal questions.

She is the author of a YA Fantasy series–The Lost Stones of Argonia–-with Elk Lake Publishing in Massachusetts. 

Dawn makes her home in the beautiful Pacific Northwest where she lives with her long-haired, IT-guy husband, a gregarious German Shepherd, two disdainful cats, and four horses–two large ones and two very small (but mighty!) ones. She loves reading, writing, riding, and traveling. 

Connect with Dawn by visiting dawnshipmanfiction.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will win Kindle copies of all three books in the series--Kingdom Lost, Quest of the Queen, and Battle for the Crown, plus a $10 Amazon gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 28, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on December 5, 2023. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. No country restrictions. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

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